SF Giants Great Rich Aurilia Named Pumpkin Festival Parade Grand Marshal

An all-time fan favorite known for his unmatched grit, passion and all-around greatness, retired San Francisco Giants shortstop Rich Aurilia will serve as honorary Grand Marshal of the world-famous Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Festival Parade, Saturday, October 15 at 12 noon.

"For me, Richie’s the best all-around shortstop to ever put on a San Francisco Giants uniform," said Cameron Palmer, Chairman of the festival committee. "His determination and intensity was inspirational and he was an absolute force throughout his long and exceptional career. We're pumped up and totally thrilled he has accepted our invitation to serve as parade Grand Marshal this year.”

Aurilia, who sported #35 now worn by Brandon Crawford, made his Major League debut with the Giants in 1995. This would begin his long, solid run as the Giants shortstop.

In 2001, Aurilia had one of the greatest seasons any shortstop has ever had in MLB history. He collected a National League best 206 hits, all leading to a .324 batting average with 37 home runs, 97 RBI, an NL All-Star nod, and a Silver Slugger Award. His career best 37 home run year in 2001 was overshadowed by Barry Bonds' record breaking 73 home runs in the same season.

The 46th Annual Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival runs October 15-16, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Main St. between Mill and Spruce Streets in Half Moon Bay. Admission is free.

The festival is presented by the non-profit Half Moon Bay Beautification Committee as a community benefit. For information, call 650-726-9652 or visit http://pumpkinfest.miramarevents.com/